By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Legendary Bollywood actor and director, Manoj Kumar, has died at the age of 87 in Mumbai, India.
His death was confirmed by Dr. Santosh Shetty of Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, citing “age-related health issues” as the cause. 
Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, also confirmed that the veteran actor had been battling health issues.
Born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, Kumar rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with iconic films like this Shaheed, Upkar Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.
He was known for his patriotic films, earning him the nickname “Bharat Kumar”.
Kumar’s contributions to Indian cinema earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the country’s highest film honor.
He also received the Padma Shri in 1992 and a National Film Award. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Kumar, hailing him as an “icon of Indian cinema” whose works ignited a spirit of national pride that will continue to inspire generations.
